Riserva Naturale Pian di Spagna e Lago di Mezzola
Just 15 kilometres north of Gravedona, where the Mera river flows into the northern tip of Lake Como, lies one of northern Italy's most important wetland nature reserves — a vast, reedy delta of shallow lagoons, gravel bars and poplar forest that feels genuinely wild and remote. The Lago di Mezzola section is a designated Ramsar wetland and a critical staging post for migratory birds on the Alpine
Wildlife and the Landscape
Spring migration (April–May) brings thousands of wading birds, ducks and raptors through the reserve, with great white egrets, black kites, ospreys and marsh harriers among the regular sightings. In winter, the lagoons host significant numbers of diving ducks and grebes, and the reed beds hold bitterns and water rails year-round.
The landscape itself is striking — the flat, reed-fringed expanse of Lago di Mezzola backed by the sheer rock walls of the Valchiavenna mountains creates a contrast between horizontal stillness and vertical drama that feels unlike anywhere else on the Como watershed.
How to Explore
A network of flat, easy cycling and walking paths runs along the dykes and embankments through the reserve, making it accessible for all fitness levels. The most rewarding loop starts from the village of Sorico (the closest settlement to Gravedona, reachable in 20 minutes by car or bike along the SS340) and circles the southern end of Lago di Mezzola in around two hours on foot.
Bring binoculars and arrive early — the reserve is most active in the two hours after dawn. The WWF Italy manages part of the reserve and occasionally runs guided birdwatching walks; check wwf.it for the current programme before your visit.
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